East-West Medicine

Acupuncture is a treatment which assists your body in healing and improves day-to-day functioning.  Thin, sterile needles are inserted through the skin at precise locations. It can help relieve pain, and it is used for a wide range of other complaints.

How does acupuncture work?

In Chinese medicine acupuncture helps regulate the flow of energy called Qi (pronounced “chee”) that runs in channels inside and over the surface of the body.  Inserting needles into different meridian points with appropriate combinations can bring the energy flow back into proper balance and allows the organs to function properly.

What conditions may be treated with acupuncture?

Acupuncture is effective for many pain problems such as headache, neck pain, back pain, and muscle/joint pain. Inflammatory and overuse syndromes like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis of shoulder, elbows, hips and knees are usually very amenable to acupuncture.  Not only can acupuncture treat pain,  it is helpful for a wide variety of problems including the common cold and stomach  viruses, mental and emotional stress, cancer, skin diseases, respiratory, digestive, reproductive disorders,  neurological disorders, dentistry, infections, childbirth, and gout to name a few.  

How long does a treatment take?  How many treatments will I need?

Generally a patient lies with needles in place for about 30 minutes.  The entire treatment takes about 45-60 minutes.  The number of treatments needed depends on the problem being treated and the individual’s response to the treatments.  Usually a patient has 3 treatments to determine if acupuncture is helpful.  If so, a total of 6-10 treatments are then recommended depending on the problem. 

When will the treatment take effect?

Some people notice improvement immediately.  Others don’t feel the effects until the next day.  Some people actually feel a bit worse after the treatment but then begin to improve.  This transient worsening may still mean that the patient will respond favorably to acupuncture.

What are the risks of acupuncture?

Acupuncture, properly performed, is a safe therapy, and complications are rare.  There is a risk of infection any time a needle enters the skin.  Momentary euphoria or lightheadedness may occur after acupuncture treatment. Other possible complications include bleeding or bruising, puncture of the lung or other organs, and broken needles. You cannot get HIV or hepatitis from acupuncture because only disposable, sterile needles are used.  .

Do the needles hurt?

The sensation felt when the needles are placed varies from person to person.  Acupuncture needles are thin (a little thicker than a human hair) and solid (not hollow like needles used for drawing blood or giving injections) so there is little discomfort when needles are inserted.  Some patients feel a small pinprick while others feel no pain at all.  A dull ache is sometimes felt when the needle comes into contact with the targeted area and is a good sign.  

Are there any side effects?

Some people feel deeply relaxed after a treatment.  Others may feel tired or sluggish for the remainder of the day.  A few people experience an elevated mood.  These changes in emotional state pass within a short time and can be overcome with rest.  

Is there anyone who shouldn’t have acupuncture treatments?

The relative contraindications include a history of a bleeding disorder or current anticoagulant therapy, an implanted pacemaker or prosthetic heart valve, use of certain medications, and/or pregnancy.

Are there any guidelines for me to follow on the day of a treatment?

Yes.  To get the most benefit from a treatment, follow these directions:

• Wear loose fitting clothes that can be easily rolled up above your elbows and knees. Also, you may need to expose your abdomen from your rib cage to the top of your hips, so avoid one piece suits or dresses.

• Be sure you have eaten at least a light meal within a few hours prior to arriving.

• Avoid overeating immediately before treatment. Being too full increases the risk of nausea or dizziness.

• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated after your appointment

• Don’t do strenuous exercise, have sex, or drink alcohol on the day after your treatment.

• Set aside enough time so that you are not rushing to and from your visit.

• Keep taking medicine as prescribed by your personal doctor.  

• Keep a positive attitude and EXPECT positive results. As we follow through on your treatment plan, look for signs of improvement and take encouragement from them. Build an attitude that expects positive results and know that profound healing is possible. Your belief and expectation has an incredibly strong influence on your body, and is a key factor in healing.

 

Are acupuncture treatments covered by my health insurance plan?

Some health insurance plans cover acupuncture treatments; others do not.  Dr. Yani does not accept insurance or communicate with insurance companies or workman's compensation.  You can receive an invoice for acupuncture services which may be submitted to your Health Savings Account or insurance company.  

 

If you would like more information, you can email eastwestmedicine@icloud.com, or book appointment online, or call 760-674-7178.

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